The thyroid gland is an endocrine organ located in the front of the neck and regulates our body metabolism with the hormones it secretes. Thyroid gland diseases range from simple goiter to life-threatening thyroid cancer. The most common diseases are irregularities in the production of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism occurs when thyroid hormones are secreted in excessive amounts, and hypothyroidism occurs when they are secreted in insufficient amounts. Inflammation of the thyroid gland is called thyroiditis. If the thyroid gland is larger than normal, it is called a goiter. In goiter, the thyroid gland is enlarged, but its functions may not be impaired.
Hyperthyroidism (toxic goiter): It is the state of excessive secretion of thyroid hormone. Accordingly;
1-Weight loss despite an increase in appetite
2-Irritability, hasteness, getting tired quickly
3-Sweating, intolerance to heat
4- Palpitations, high blood pressure
5-Diarrhea or frequent defecation
6-Dry mouth, drinking a lot of water, frequent urination, urination at night
7-Muscle weakness, trembling in hands
8-Looking an expression of surprise or fear. Upward stretching of the eyelid and swelling of the eyelid. Eyeballs appearing forward
9-Goiter, that is, enlargement of the thyroid gland is observed.
Hypothyroidism: It is the state of insufficient secretion of thyroid hormone. Therefore;
1-Weakness, fatigue, slowing down in movements
2-Slowing heartbeat
3-Increasing tendency to sleep
4-Intolerance to cold
5- Deepening of the voice, speaking in a slow and low voice
6-Thickening of the skin, dryness, hair loss, shedding of the eyebrows from the edges
7-Constipation
8-Low sweating
9-Face and swelling in the eyelids
10-Goiter, that is, the enlargement of the thyroid gland is encountered.
Thyroiditis: It is the inflammation of the thyroid gland. Therefore;
1-Pain, warmth, redness on the thyroid gland
2-Pain and restriction in neck movements
3-Acute, painful growth in the thyroid gland
4- Difficulty in swallowing
5-These symptoms may occur shortly after a virus infection such as flu, pertussis or measles, or may occur for an unknown reason.
Goiter:Mostly in the thyroid gland growth There are no signs or symptoms other than Some symptoms may occur in the surrounding tissues due to growth. Shortness of breath and difficulty swallowing may occur. The most obvious cause is iodine deficiency, which is usually local.
Thyroid cancers: It should be considered in the above-mentioned conditions or unexpected enlargement of the thyroid gland, and in suspected cases, it may be necessary to consult a specialist as soon as possible.
Used in the diagnosis of thyroid diseases. examinations:
Tests measuring thyroid gland functions
Ultrasonography
Scintigraphy
Fine needle biopsy and many other examinations are available when necessary.
Treatment;
- Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormones with insufficient production should be given externally to the patient. Treatment is continued for life.
- Thyroiditis: Appropriate antibiotics are given in cases that develop due to bacterial infections. Surgical drainage is performed. Prednisolone and/or thyroid hormones are given in Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
- Goiter: Adding iodine (using iodized salt) to the diet of children and adolescents in regions where the disease is common prevents the development of goiter. In diffuse and soft goiters, the goiter is significantly reduced by external thyroid hormone. The treatments given can be planned.
Read: 0
